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American  Dramati  ts  Series 
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American  Dramatists  Series 


TWO    MASQUES 

America — The   Women  of  Shakespeare 


BY 


JULIA  HALL  BARTHOLOMEW 


BOSTON:  THE  GORHAM  PRESS 

TORONTO:     THE    COPP    CLARK    CO.,   LIMITED 


Copyright,  1916,  by  Julia  H.  Barttiolomew 


All    Rights    Reserved 


BCADE  IN  THE  UNITED  STATES  OF  AMERICA 

Th»  Gorham  Press,  Boston,  U.  S.  A. 


CONTENTS 

America    7 

Women  of   Shakespeare 27 


373223 


AMERICA 


CHARACTERS 

Columbus. 

America. 

First  Chorus. 

Second  Chorus. 

Third  Chorus. 

Fourth  Chorus. 

Fifth  Chorus. 

Prophet. 

Five  Groups  of  Nations. 

Seven  Groups  of  Dancers. 

COSTUMES 

Columbus — Italian,  Fifteenth  Century. 
America — White,  cap  and  gown. 
Choruses — Red,  caps  and  gowns. 
Prophet — Blue,  cap  and  gown. 
Groups  of  Nations — National  costumes. 
Nymphs,  Indians,  Fairies,  Gipsies, 
Classic  Dancers,  and  Oriental  Dancers. 


TWO    MASQUES 

AMERICA 

A  Masque 

Columbus  is  seated  at  a  table,  on  one  side  of  the 
stage,  where  papers  and  charts  are  strewn  about. 
He  is  deeply  engaged  in  looking  over  these,  study- 
ing and  arranging  for  so^me  minutes.  Remaining 
seated  he  speaks. 

COLUMBUS 

A  little  lad  In  Genoa,  I  dreamed 

Of  distant  shores;  and  most  adventurous  schemes, 

As  far  across  the  luring  sea  I  gazed, 

Filled  out  the  measure  of  my  ardent  dreams. 

Outward  and  on  my  flying  fancy  sped 
To  overtake  the  sunset  mysteries 
Lost  in  the  purple  night.     I  yearned  to  sail 
And  seek  a  wondrous  land  beyond  the  seas. 

{He  pauses  and  looks  upward.) 

Has  wild  adventure  so  entranced  my  soul, 
Imagination  fired  my  brain  to  think 
Of  things  impossible,  that  I  am  led 
By  idle  dreaming  to  destruction's  brink? 
7 


8  TWO  MASQUES 

For  still  my  vision  paints  a  fair  bright  world, 
Abundant,  rich,  and  vast;   and  in  my  mind 
The  thrill  for  conquest  stirs;    my  heart's  elate 
P'or  exploration, — a  great  land  to  find. 

{Columbus  rises,  holding  a  paper  in  his  hand;   as 
he  slowly  walks  about  the  stage  he  says)  : — 

There  must  be  land  'neath  those  far  opal  skies. 
Isles  Fortunate  and  Fields  Elysian; 
Storm-driven  sailors  oft  have  given  report 
Of  a  fair  coast  which  their  keen  eyes  did  scan. 

{He  pauses,  and  stands  as  if  beholding  a  vision.) 

Mayhap  there  are  in  that  dim-visioned  land 

Grottos  and  fountains  where  the  nymphs  do  dwell; 

In  law  and  wisdom  versed,  Egeria 

May  hold  a  sylvan  court  and  reign  right  well. 

The  floating  clouds  are  like  a  fairy  troop, 
Enchanting  all  my  powers;   and  my  heart  craves 
To  reach  that  far  horizon  in  the  west. 
While  dancing  Scylla  lures  across  the  waves. 

{Columbus  slowly  approaches  the  table,  and  sits 
in   reverie. ) 

Interlude — Dance  of  Nymphs. 

{Still  seated,  but  looking  toward  the  audience,  Co- 
lumbus says)  : — 


AMERICA  g 

COLUMBUS 

A  feast  was  held  in  that  rare  Golden  Age, 
When  Saturn  reigned  in  Sunny  Italy, 
Where  master  served  the  servant,  and  w^as  proud 
That  each  could  serve  with  true  equality. 

Now  to  my  vision  there  appears  a  world 
Where  social  service  rules  and  reigns  for  all. 
And  where  good  women  rise  and  take  their  share; 
Where  peace  and  beauty  answer  spirits'  call. 

{Rising  quickly,  and  coming  forward,  Columbus 
continues)  : — 

COLUMBUS 

The  vision  beckons!     I  must  venture  forth! 

I  bow  not  at  the  shrine  of  Terminus; 

It  is  not  written  in  my  destiny 

Failure  to  know,  and  have  high  hope  end  thus. 

A  little  lad  in  Genoa,  I  dreamed 
Of  distant  shores,  and  now  a  man,  I'll  sail 
Into  the  great  unknown,  to  meet  my  dream 
Beyond  the  seas.     Pray  God  I  do  not  fail. 

{Weird  music  is  heard,  at  first  very  faint,  when 
Columbus  speaks  of  "the  great  unknown."  As  he 
ceases  speaking  it  grows  gradually  louder.  Ameri- 
can Indians  appear  and  dance.  The  music  becomes 
riotous,  gradually  growing  subdued,  and  faint  as 
the  dance  ends  and  the  Indians  fade  away.) 


10  TWO  MASQUES 

(America  appears,  carrying  a  zuand.  She  calls 
upon  the  spirit  of  Columbus  to  witness  what  has 
come  to  pass.) 

AMERICA 

Since  time  and  space  no  limitations  hold 
For  spirits  who  have  conquered  in  the  quest, 
Behold  from  realms  of  beauty,  light,  and  truth, 
America — the  proud,  the  golden  West. 

Things  dreamers  make  live  on,  and  in  thy  dreams 
Thou   mad'st   a   v^^orld    more   fine   than   one   then 

known  ; 
And  yet,  though  great  the  vision  was,  perchance 
America  beyond  all  dreams  has  grown. 

Behold  a  land  thy  soul  must  dearly  prize, 
And  thy  adventurous  spirit  must  admire; 
Wide-eyed  with  wonder  at  magnificence, 
See  now  the  goal  to  which  her  sons  aspire. 

The  power  of  oceans'  restless,  surging  tides 
Has  carried  to  these  shores  both  men  and  things 
Of  w^orth  and  beauty.    Races  have  found  homes 
Since  hither  they  were  urged  by  fancy's  wings. 

Now  strong  Atlantic  weds  the  sea  of  Peace, 
With  vision  and  with  purpose  girded  well. 
It  must  not  be  that  war  shall  henceforth  mar 
The  land  where  all  in  brotherhood  may  dwell. 

{America  pauses,  and  walks  across  the  stage,  med- 
itating;   the  sound  of  footsteps  is  heard,  as  she  be- 


AMERICA  II 

gins   to   speak,   accompanied   by   soft   music,   which 
grows  more  distinct  and  loud  as  she  ceases  speaking.) 

AMERICA 

Footsteps  are  heard  of  millions  coming  on, 
And  thrilling  music  falls  upon  the  ear, 
Sweet  tones  of  joy,  and  peace,  and  promise  fine 
For  all  who  in  this  presence  do  appear. 

{Columbus  takes  his  place  at  the  table,  and  re- 
mains seated  while  he  views  the  pageant.) 

First  Episode 

{America  waves  her  wand.  Enter  Chorus,  or 
Leader,  who  recites  the  following  lines  as  the  four 
groups  of  four  enter  in  order  as  the  nationality  is 
mentioned.  The  groups  take  their  places  alter- 
nately at  either  side.) 

FIRST  CHORUS 

Here  now  advance  the  people  whom  thy  dreams 
Beheld ;   yet  not  methinks,  of  numbers  great 
As  all  the  many  millions  in  this  land. 
Thy  wildest  fancy  ere  did  estimate. 

{Enter  English   Group.) 

FIRST  CHORUS 

From  "merrie"  England  there  came  not  a  few; 
And  with  them  came  the  language  of  the  land. 


12  TWO  MASQUES 

And  laws,  and  customs  good.    May  these  fine  sons 
Ne'er  fail  to  clasp  Old  England  by  the  hand. 

(Enter    Spanish    Group.) 

FIRST  CHORUS 

From  blue-skied   Spain  have  come  men  brave  and 

bold, 
Keen  set  for  thrilling  deeds  and  acts  bizarre. 
Lured  on  the  sunset  path,  to  western  shores 
As  by  the  gleam  of  scintillating  star. 

Across  the  southland  rich  they  blazed  the  trail 
From  Eastern  coast  to  California's  sands; 
And  everywhere  along  the  borderland 
Are  found  romantic  touches  of  their  hands. 

(Enter  Dutch  Group.) 

The  sturdy  Dutchman  also  heard  the  call 
Of  vastness.     They  did  seek  the  northern  shore, 
And  planted  there  right  worthy  qualities; 
Howbeit  they  held  customs  as  of  yore. 

Strong   folk,   from   vigorous  clime,   and   dykes   and 

floods, 
In  bonded  groups  they  came,  earl,  churl,  and  thrall, 
With  spirits  high,  determination  firm. 
Jovial  and  joyous,  yet  right  true  withal. 

{Enter  French  Group.) 

FIRST  CHORUS 

With  hope  and  buoyancy  and  graciousness. 
Some  bright  adventurers  did  leave  fair  France 


AMERICA  13 

And  found  no  cause  to  fault  the  ones  who  steered 
Their  wandering  course,   and  did  their  minds  en- 
trance. 

Things  beautiful  they  brought,  and  helped  to  build 
Fine  towns  and  shaded  avenues,  where  trees 
Form  rare  green  vistas,  where  the  melody 
Of  bird-song  blends  in  sweet  tones  with  the  breeze. 

Dance — Virginia  Reel.     By  the  Four  Groups. 
AMERICA 

{Addressing  Columbus.) 

Now  must  thy  heart  with  joyfulness  o'erflow, 
As  thou  beholdest  these  whom  joy  has  filled, 
And  made  their  footsteps  light  and  gay  in  dance. 
To  prove  how  hope  and  conquest  have  them  thrilled. 

{America  waves  the  wand  as  she  speaks  and  the 
four  groups  pass  from  the  stage.) 

Second  Episode 

{Enter  German   Group.) 

SECOND  CHORUS 

Science  must  follow  in  the  train,  so  long, 
Of  all  the  myriad  things  that  men  can  do 
And  know.    And  out  from  Germany  there  came 
A  number  great,  who  works  of  science  knew. 


14  TWO  MASQUES 

Fine  farms,  and  meadows,  also,  with  the  kine 
Upon  a  thousand  hills,  where  wealth  abounds 
In  faithful  tillage,  German  folk  have  held; 
And  cheered  their  toil  with  lusty  vocal  sounds. 

{Enter  Irish  Group.) 

SECOND  CHORUS 

Some  of  the  freshness  of  the  Emerald  isle 
Springs  forth  from  every  soul  of  Irish  folk, 
Genius  inventive,  quick  surprising  wit, 
Humor  for  changing  hours,  and  sparkling  joke. 

Weird  things  and  fairies,  coupled,  too,  with  mirth, 
And  harps  and  songs,  and  things  for  making  dreams, 
The  Irish  brought.    For  many  toils  their  worth 
Is  known;    from  dull  hours  their  bright  word  re- 
deems. 

{Enter  Swiss  Group.) 

SECOND  CHORUS 

The  tiny  tinkling  bell  among  the  Alps, 
Sounds  tender  tones  in  calm  cool  evening  hours; 
And  peasants  gather,  ere  the  night  has  fallen, 
To  breathe  the  fragrance  of  the  grass  and  flowers. 

From    rich    green    glens    and    snow-tipped    Alpine 

heights 
Clear-eyed  and  healthful  people  here  have  come, 
Right-minded  in  their  thought  of  liberty, 
And  glad  to  make  this  favored  land  their  home. 

{Enter  Italian  Group.) 


AMERICA  15 

SECOND  CHORUS 

Italia  has  sent  a  glad,  gay  life, 
And  bright-eyed  children  gleeful,  keen  and  strong, 
Who  make  a  j,oyous  journey  through  the  day 
With  winning  charm  of  melody  and  song. 

Some  trace  of  their  great  ancient  history 

Clings  to  their  garments,  lingers  in  their  hearts; 

And  if  from  Naples,  Rome,  or  Sicily, 

Or  otherwhere  they  come,  they  bring  their  arts. 

Dance — Fairies  Dance. 

AMERICA 

Blended  in  beauty,  music,  play  and  art 
Are  man's  accomplishments,  in  this  free  land; 
Here  may  each  genius  find  a  place  to  thrive, 
Each  individuality  expand. 

{America  waves  the  wand  as  she  speaks  and  the 
four  groups  J  followed  by  the  fairies ,  leave  the  stage.) 

Third  Episode 
{Enter  Greek  Group.) 

THIRD  CHORUS 

To  human  creatures  there  belongs  the  right 
Of  grace  in  every  dwelling  of  the  soul, 
And  on  the  head  of  Greece  must  rest  the  crown 
Of  conquest  for  the  body,  pure  and  whole. 


1 6  TWO  MASQUES 

Into  America  has  found  its  way 

The  spirit  fine  of  Greece,  and  Ganymede 

Has  coursed  his  way.    The  open  field 

Has  conquered  life,  and  taught  the  motor's  speed. 

(Enter  Russian  Group.) 

THIRD  CHORUS 

Some  types  of  ruggedness  and  virile  strength 
Must  lend  a  character,  and  freely  blend, 
To  make  new  nations  great.     From  out  the  north 
Have  come  men  who  combine  for  this  good  end. 

Russians,  from  climes  where  cold  winds  harden  man, 
Bring  vigor,  health  and  strength  as  here  they  come 
To  have  a  part  in  this  new  continent, 
And  beautify  the  place  they  call  their  home. 

(Enter  Persian  Group.) 

THIRD  CHORUS 

With  haughty  mien  and  most  deliberate  air, 
Long  memories  of  nightingale  and  rose, 
Perfume  of  attar,  regal  robes  and  ware, 
Persians  have  come,  with  culture  and  repose. 

Merchants  have  found  the  golden  key  which  now 
Unlocks  the  caskets  of  the  treasure  store 
Of  Persia's  gems,  embroideries,  and  rugs; 
And  books  are  written  of  their  ancient  lore. 

{Enter  Group  from  India.) 


AMERICA  17 

THIRD  CHORUS 

Ancient  philosophy  has  slowly  come 

From  India,  the  land  of  mystic  lore; 

Songs  from  these  poets,  these  deep  knowing  ones, 

Must  surely  charm  this  country  more  and  more. 

The  land  of  marble  mosques,  and  temples  huge, 
In  grandeur  wrought  and  carved  and  all  inlaid 
With  rich  mosaic  forms,  sends  hitherward 
Minds  filled  with  beauty  that  these  arts  have  made. 

Dance — Classic  Dance. 

AMERICA 

Knowing  the  power  of  these  historic  lands, 
The  length  of  their  existence,  and  their  deeds 
Of  valor,  faith,  and  might,  it  us  behooves 
To  honor  them  and  understand  their  creeds. 

{America  waves  the  wand  as  she  speaks  and  the 
four  groups  J  followed  by  the  dancers,  leave  the 
stage. ) 

Fourth  Episode 
(Enter  Syrian  Group.) 

FOURTH  CHORUS 

It  seems  most  fit  this  land  should  welcome  those 
Who  once  have  trod  the  hills  of  Palestine, 
Those  hills  so  barren  now,  but  which  erstwhile 
Were  clad  in  beauty,  and  the  valleys  green. 


1 8  TWO  MASQUES 

To  lead  the  nations  to  enduring  peace 

It  needs  must  be  the  Prince  of  Peace  is  known, 

And  those  who  knew  Him  not  in  Syria, 

In  this  land  may  be  found  among  His  own. 

(Enter  Group  from  Egypt.) 

FOURTH  CHORUS 

Admixtures  of  the  race  on  Egypt's  soil, 
From  Galla,  Nubia,  and  Kordofan, 
Born  in  the  ranks  of  servitude  and  toil, 
Find  here  the  equal  rights  of  each  free  man. 

Learned  men  have  penetrated  and  disclosed 
Things  wonderful  of  history  and  art. 
From  times  of  Pharoahs  and  the  Ptolomies, 
Within  old  Egypt's  sandy  desert  heart. 

(Enter  Group  from  Arabia.) 

FOURTH  CHORUS 

The  wandering  Arab  too  has  found  the  way 
To  these  broad  lands.  Since  Crusade  times  his  power 
In  many  forms  has  reached  the  eager  West, 
And  answered  questionings  of  students'  hour. 

With  far  keen  vision  Arabs  know  the  way 
Of  stars;    and  nature's  mysteries  they  seek. 
From  cities  hidden  in  their  desert  sands 
Knowledge  may  come  of  which  they  do  not  speak. 

(Enter  Hungarian   Group.) 


AMERICA  19 

FOURTH  CHORUS 

Gipsies  have  wandered  to  and  fro  o'er  Earth, 
Telling  the  fortunes  of  the  high  and  low, 
Heedless  of  naught  but  mystery  and  mirth. 
And  ever  skilled  in  music  of  the  bow. 

From  Hungary  have  come  these  vagrant  souls, 
And  many  plodding  working  men,  as  well; 
America  has  offered  much  to  these, 
A  future  bright  their  calendars  foretell. 

Dance — Dance  of  the  Gipsies. 

AMERICA 

The  Maker  of  the  universe  has  called 
This  land  to  honor  and  to  faithfulness; 
Sending  and  blending  all  these  races  here. 
Where  they  in  unity  the  World  may  bless. 

{America  waves  the  wand  as  she  speaks  and  the 
four  groups,  followed  by  the  Gipsies,  leave  the 
stage. ) 

Fifth  Episode 

{Enter  Group  from  China.) 

FIFTH  CHORUS 

To  seek  Cathay  was  purposed  in  his  mind 
When  brave  Columbus  sailed  out  to  the  West; 
And  now  men  from  Cathay  come  to  this  land 
To  find  a  home  and  gain  what  makes  life  best. 


20  TWO  MASQUES 

An  ancient  people,  peaceful,  plodding,  sure, 
And  versed  in  wisdom's  lore;   they  also  bring 
A  contribution  worthy  to  endure, 
And  from  endurance  much  of  strength  does  spring. 

{Enter   Group  from   Japan.) 

FIFTH  CHORUS 

Some  subtle  fascination  lies  within 

The  artizans  and  artists  of  Japan; 

A  charm  and  witching  grace  they  oft  possess, 

E'en  though  'tis  by  a  tiny  painted  fan. 

Beyond  their  sunrise  land  they've  ventured  out, 
To  offer  in  these  marts  their  tempting  ware; 
They  ask  in  progress  and  prosperity 
To  have  an  even  chance,  an  equal  share. 

(Enter  First  Group  of  Islands.) 
FIFTH  CHORUS 

When  God  had  made  the  Earth  and  called  it  good. 

There  lay  upon  the  water's  smiling  face 

Some   fragments   from   the   land;    and   these  were 

crowned 
With  beauty  not  excelled  in  any  place. 

{Enter  Second  Group  of  Islands.) 
FIFTH  CHORUS 

Ships  passing  by  the  Islands  in  the  seas 
Have  carried  to  America's  expanse 


AMERICA  21 

The  toiling  peasant,  and  the  dreamer,  who 
Had  visions  of  a  larger  life  perchance. 

Dance — Far  Eastern  Dancers. 

AMERICA 

Fine  sons,  fair  daughters,  from  these  races  sprung 
Join  now  in  struggle  for  a  nation's  name, 
For  peace,  and  unity,  and  brotherhood. 
That  shall  forevermore  ensure  fair  fame. 

These  minds  are  deep  and  true,  prepared  to  serve 
Along  the  great  highway  of  human  life; 
Humble  in  soul,  and  with  a  conscience  clear, 
Hearts  yearn  to  heal  the  world  at  war  and  strife. 

(America  waves  the  wand  as  she  speaks  and  the 
four  groups  of  four,  followed  by  the  dancers,  leave 
the  stage.  America  gradually  approaches  Columbus, 
who  rises  and  speaks.) 

COLUMBUS 

America,  great  things  accomplished  are, 
And  life  is  rich  within  thy  borders  fair; 
What  henceforth  is  thine  aim,  is't  thy  desire 
To  lead  all  lands  to  peace? 

AMERICA 

It  is  our  prayer 
And  purpose  to  be  true,  to  find  the  spring 
Of  fine  enduring  life,  to  reach  a  goal 


22  TWO  MASQUES 

Both  high  and  far.     Yet  lure  of  gain  is  great, 
And  wealth  ensnares. 

COLUMBUS 

Arise,  and  find  thy  soul 
In  service  pure.     The  spirit  called  me  forth 
To  find  the  wonders  of  far-famed  Cathay, 
And  girdle  all  the  earth  with  joy  and  truth 
In  gracious  wealth  of  bloom. 

AMERICA 

Can  we  obey 
That  voice  which  called  thee  ages  gone,  and  how 
Shall  we  its  whisperings  hear  when  every  ear 
Is  filled  with  commerce's  din,  when  solitude 
Is  no  man's  guest? 

COLUMBUS 

Bend  to  the  earth,  and  hear 
The  near  sweet  voice  of  duty,  calling  clear; 
Then  bid  thy  soul  take  cheer  and  mount  on  high ; 
For  lowly  listening  tunes  the  thought  aright. 
And  hearts  with  noble  purpose  serve  and  fly 
Along  the  way  of  life. 

AMERICA 

The  busy  marts  demand 
Our  lives'  best  hours.     How  then  may  we  attain 
The  poise,  the  quiet  power,  the  strength  of  will 
That  brings  the  best  to  body,  soul  and  brain? 


AMERICA  23 

How  sweep  away  wrong,  suffering  and  sin, 
How  learn  life's  science  true? 


COLUMBUS 

Art  thou  right  sure 
Thy  aim  is  truly  great,  lurks  there  no  taint 
Of  greed  within  thy  mind  ?    Is  thy  soul  pure 
Inflamed  with  brother-spirit,  not  with  self? 
The  prophets  have  in  ancient  time  well  told, 
To  nations  all  unheeding  of  their  voice, 
"Destruction  cometh  when  the  aim  is  gold." 
Now  search  the  nation's  soul  and  read  her  heart; 
Gems  may  lie  underneath  the  soil,  unguessed; 
This  blended  race  may  lead  the  hosts  of  earth 
In  all  the  ways  of  art,  in  beauty's  quest, 
Exuberant  and  free. 

AMERICA 

Can  beauty's  way 
Uplift  the  land,  can  poetry  and  art 
Fill  needs  of  souls  that  grope  for  living  light 
Along  life's  thorn-edged  path? 

COLUMBUS 

To  every  heart 
These  offer  wholesome  food.    But  there  is  balm 
For  wounds,   found   in   a  sure  firm   faith.        The 

names 
I  gave  the  lands  I  touched  witness  my  zeal, 
My  bold  adventure  faith  in  God  proclaims. 
Faith  was  my  guiding  star,  and  by  its  gleam 


U  TWO  MASQUES 

I  took  my  course  across  th'  inviting  seas 

To  reach  great  lands,  for  I  was  not  content 

To  loiter  in  green  isles  of  bliss  and  ease. 

Make  faith  thy  watchword  now,  and  follow  peace, 

Then  great  shall  be  thy  end. 

AMERICA 

Who  shall  us  lead? 
Are  all  the  prophets  gone,  will  none  arise 
To  help  us  find  our  soul  ?    We  will  take  heed 
If  one  there  be  to  show  us  the  bright  way. 
The  sunlit  path  we  seek. 

COLUMBUS 

Not  one  alone 
There  is  to  lead,  but  hosts  if  ye  will  list; 
Yet  not  mid  noise  of  battle  are  they  known, 
In  gentle  tones  they  speak,  with  voices  mild. 

AMERICA 
By  what  names  called  are  they? 

COLUMBUS 

Poet,  and  seer, 
All  who  create,  in  drama,  song,  or  speech, 
Art,  beauty,  truth.     Behold  now  comes  one  here. 

(Enter  Prophet,  who  reads  from  a  scroll  as  he 
walks  about  the  stage,  now  addressing  Columbus, 
and  then  America;  at  other  times  gazing  far  off  into 
space. ) 


AMERICA  25 

PROPHET 

America  shall  find  her  soul  in  deeds 

Of  service  true;   and  unto  lasting  peace 

Lead  nations  when  at  war.     For  this  high  end 

Must  be  conserved  her  moral  potencies; 

It  shall  not  come  with  idle  hours  and  ease, 

But  nerve  and  strength,  great  tasks  to  undertake. 

Unseen  the  universe  of  real  things 

The  spirit's  life  must  find.     Self  shall  awake 

To  consciousness  of  brotherhood,  and  art, 

And  deep  religious  need,  and  drama's  power, 

To  re-create  the  energies  of  man. 

And  crush  war's  spectacle,  so  grim  and  dour. 

Ideals,  like  bright  banners  flung  aloft. 

Shall  constitute  the  conquering  sign.     To  raise 

Each  nation's  life  all  nations  must  combine 

And  brotherhood  of  nations,  for  all  days. 

Keep  reverence  for  man.     Each  patriot 

Religion,  too,  shall  feel.     And  ritual 

Uplift  where  beauty  can  appeal  to  souls 

Who  sink  and  fall  when  sordid  things  enthrall. 

From  influence  within  and  from  without, 

All  wretched  things  that  hurt  and  mar  and  stain, 

The  borders  of  this  land  shall  guarded  be. 

By  heart  refined  and  elevated  brain. 

Equality  in  wisdom,  worth  and  love, 

Shall  reign  when  men  and  women  dwell  in  peace 

And  sympathy;   and  only  then  indeed 

Shall  beauty  last,  when  women  find  release 

From  cloying  things  to  seek  a  higher  sphere. 

And  climb,  with  men,  above  the  ways  that  hold 


26  TWO  MASQUES 

Their  feet  from  energy  and  grace.     Insight 
For  art  and  life  shall  then  high  dreams  unfold. 
Earth's  craving  soul  shall  so  be  satisfied, 
Each  land  shall  know  of  this  great  peaceful  aim, 
All  nations'  ills  America  shall  cure 
When  churches,  schools  and  homes  this  word  pro- 
claim. 

AMERICA 

Hinged  now  on  keen  expectancy,  the  door 
Of  opportunity  stands  open  wide 
For  swift  advance,  along  the  great  highways 
Of  truth,  to  all  who  firm  and  strong  abide. 

These  races  welded  now  in  union  sure 
May  herald  forth  the  word  of  lasting  peace, 
Each  seeing  stars  of  guidance  in  the  flag, 
And  bound  in  brotherhood  that  ne'er  shall  cease. 

The  pageant  of  the  flag  is  free  for  all; 
It  must  inspire,  as  when  it  floats  afar 
With  music,  art,  and  gladsome  life,  men  shall 
No  longer  crave  the  spectacle  of  war. 

(While  America  has  been  saying  these  words,  the 
five  ChoruseSj  with  their  groups  in  order,  have  come 
upon  the  stage.  Each  Chorus  carries  an  American 
flag  of  medium  size,  while  every  member  of  the 
group  carries  a  smaller  flag.  When  America  ceases 
speaking  the  Star  Spangled  Banner  is  played.  The 
Prophet  drapes  a  large  flag  over  America  s  should- 
ers, and  all  of  the  groups  wave  the  flags.) 

Curtain 


WOMEN  OF  SHAKESPEARE 


SHAKESPEARE   BEFORE   QUEEN    ELIZA- 
BETH AND  HER  COURT  LADIES 

Choruses     Pages 

Music — Midsummer  Night's  Dream. 

COMEDY 

TiTANiA — Fairies — Puck    

A  Midsummer  Night's  Dream 

Katherine The  Taming  of  the  Shrew 

Mistress  Ford,  Sweet  Anne  Page 

The  Merry  Wives  of  Windsor 

Princess  of  France  and  Attendants 

Love's  Labour's  Lost 

ROSELIND CeLIA ^AuDREY PhEBE     

As  You  Like  It 
Viola — Olivia — Maria Twelfth  Night 

Dance  of  Puck 

ENGLISH  HISTORY 

Queen   Constance,    (Arthur),  Blanche 

OF  Spain King  John 

Princess  Katharine — Alice Henry  V 

Queen  Margaret — Joan  of  Arc — Elean- 
or Duchess  of  Gloucester Henry  VI 

Elizabeth  (Queen  of  Edward  IV) — Little 
Princes  of  the  Tower Richard  III 

Queen   Katharine — ^Anne   Bullen,   and 

Ladies-in-Waiting Henry  VIII 

A  Morris  Dance 


TRAGEDY 

Ophelia   .' Hamlet 

Juliet — Nurse   Romeo  and  Juliet 

Desdemona — Emilia    Othello 

GoNERiL — Regan — Cordelia King   Lear 

Lady  Macbeth  Macbeth 

A  Sword  Dance 

CLASSIC 

Cressida  —  Helen  —  Cassandra — Andro- 
mache   Troilus  and  Cressida 

VoLUMNiA — ViRGiLiA    Coriolanus 

Portia — Calpurnia  Julius  Caesar 

Cleopatra — Iras — Charmian    

Antony  and  Cleopatra 

A  Classic  Dance 


ROMANCE 

Isabella Measure   for   Measure 

PoRTL-^ — Nerissa — Jessica.  .  .Merchant  of  Venice 

Beatrice — Hero Much  Ado  About  Nothing 

Imogen    Cymbeline 

Hermione — Perdita The  Winter's  Tale 

Miranda — Ariel The  Tempest 

Dance  of  Ariel 

The  Dark  Lady  of  the  Sonnets 

Dance  of  Puck  and  Fairies 

Music — Midsummer  Night's  Dream 

Curtain 


WOMEN  OF  SHAKESPEARE 

(Curtain  rises.  The  queen  is  seated  on  the  throne, 
with  two  court  ladies  standing  on  each  side  and  one 
seated  at  the  feet  of  the  queen.  A  page  stands  on 
each  side  of  the  stage.  Shakespeare  enters  from  the 
left,  advances  a  few  steps  and  pauses.  The  queen 
signals  to  him  to  approach;  he  comes  forward  to 
within  a  few  steps  from  the  centre,  and  makes  obeis- 
ance to  the  queen,  who  acknowledges  his  attitude. 
She  makes  a  gesture  permitting  her  attendants  to 
be  seated.  They  take  their  places,  which  are  some- 
what lower  than  that  occupied  by  the  queen.  Shake- 
speare then  speaks  the  prologue.) 

SHAKESPEARE 

Most  gracious  Sovereign!     May  we  entertain, 
By  pageant  of  the  women  of  our  brain, 
Your  Majesty;    and  so  obtain  your  praise. 
In  realms  of  fancy  we  have  spent  our  days 
And  many  hours  of  night.     Fitting  it  seems 
The  women  of  our  visions  and  our  dreams 
At  this  time  we  should  thus  to  you  present. 
That  you  may  know  our  aim  and  our  intent. 

To  cheer  you  first,  we  bring  our  Comedy; 
Then  History  follows;    then  dire  Tragedy. 
Also  we've  roamed  afar  to  Classic  years ; 
There's   Romance,   too;    and   songs   for  mirth   and 
tears. 

31 


32  TWO  MASQUES 

So  now,  we  beg  our  women  may  be  seen 

By  thee,  our  honored  and  our  gracious  queen. 

{At  the  conclusion  of  the  prologue  Shakespeare 
bows  and  retreats,  taking  his  place  on  a  chair  at  the 
left.) 

Music — Midsummer  Night's  Dream. 

{Enter  Comedy  Group  of  luomen,  from  the  right, 
led  by  Chorus,  who'  recites  the  following  lines  as  they 
pass  sloiuly  before  the  queen.) 

COMEDY  CHORUS 

Bringing  wit  and  glee 
Cometh   Comedy. 
All  these  ladies  fair 
Tread  with  sprightly  air; 
Their  spirits  are  gay 
For  a  mad-cap  day, 
When  the  merry  mood 
Has  quickened  the  blood, 
And  lure  of  the  shee 
To  the  greenwood  tree 
And  the  fairy  dance, 
Each  and  all  entrance. 
Titania's  grace 
And  Puck's  jolly  face; 
The  Paduan  shrew; 
Anne  Page,  sweet  and  true, 
With  gay  Mistress  Ford 
And  her  saucy  word; 


WOMEN  OF  SHAKESPEARE  33 

There's  love-time  of  May 
For  the  Princess'  day; 
Rosalind's  virtue, 
Constant  Celia  too, 
With  Audrey  w^e  see 
The  rustic  Phebe, 
Viola,  Duke's  bride, 
Olivia  beside; 
Maria  the  jade, 
A  fair  saucy  maid; 

Drive  all  care  aw^ay 
And  herald  sweet  May. 
Mirth  and  Melody 
Come  with  Comedy. 

{The  Comedy  Group  pass  from  the  stage  at  the 
left  when  the  Chorus  has  ended  speaking.) 

Dance  of  Puck 

{Enter  History  Group  of  women,  from  the  right, 
led  by  Chorus,  who  recites  the  following  lines  as 
the  women  pass  slowly  before  the  queen.) 

HISTORY  CHORUS 

Now  we  present  our  queens  and  noble  dames 
Of  History  in  your  excellent  land.     The  names 
Well  known, — Constance  and  (Arthur),  Blanche  of 

Spain ; 
Then  Katharine,  and  Alice  in  her  train; 
Margaret  d'Anjou,  Joan  La  Pucelle  brave, 
(From  such  as  Meg  Jourdain  we  pray  to  save)  5 


34  TWO  MASQUES 

The  Duchess  uttering  "dark  shall  be  my  light," 
Feeling  a  King's  great  power,  her  day  was  night; 
With  "lips  like  four  red  roses  on  a  stalk" 
Princes,  quite  innocent,  to  death  did  walk, 
And  Mother  sad  who  saw  "as  in  a  map 
The  end  of  all."     How  quick  the  trap 
Of  fate  is  snapped  on  mortals  frail 
The  drama  finds  a  way  to  tell  the  tale. 

Of  women,  in  your  honored  Father's  reign, 
Who  graced  the  court  magnificent,  we  fain 
Would  bring  them  all.  For  beauty,  grace  and  worth 
We  honor  many  names  of  noble  birth 
On  History's  roll.     And  ever  proud  we  are 
That  women  played  their  part  in  stately  power. 
Katharine,  queen  so  "much  too  ventrous" 
And  Anne  Bullen  are  picturesque  to  us. 
Then  learning  found  a  place  and  liberty, 
Reaching  in  your  fair  time  great  dignity. 

And  now  we  trust  that  you  may  "think  ye  see 
The  very  persons  of  our  noble  story 
As  they  were  living:  think  you  see  them  great;" 
Queens  and  Court  ladies  in  the  hands  of  fate. 
For  so  it  seems.       Now,  we  would  have  you  know 
Our  reverence  for  your  Grace  before  we  go. 
These  queens  and  women  have  had  joys  and  tears; 
In  warp  and  woof  of  History's  woven  years 
The  tapestry  has  colors  dull  and  gay, 
And  thus  is  woven  the  texture  of  the  Play. 

(When  the  Chorus'  has  ended  speaking  the  His- 
tory Group  pass  from  the  stage  at  the  left.) 


WOMEN  OF  SHAKESPEARE         35 

A  Morris  Dance 

{Enter  Tragedy  Group  of  women  from  the  right 
led  by  Chorus,  who  recites  the  following  lines.) 

TRAGEDY  CHORUS 

The  poet  oft  must  visit  Helicon, 

And  walk  in  converse  with  Melpomene; 

For  never  wins  he  higher  in  his  art 
Than  when  his  thought  is  steeped  in  Tragedy. 

Reminded  are  we  that  the  Tragic  muse 

A  woman  was.     The  Drama  needs  must  find 

That  fairest  women's  hearts  are  bruised  and  torn 
And  sorrow's  burdens  laid  upon  the  mind. 

Great  women,  chosen  by  destiny  for  pain, 
And  suffering  trials  oft  that  rend  the  heart, 

Good  women,  falling  victims  of  a  plot. 
Are  found  among  the  finest  in  our  art. 

Ophelia  of  "good  beauties"  and  sad  fate, 

Well  did  she  know  "the  poison  of  deep  grief;" 

The  trials  of  Juliet,  the  Capulet, 

In  her  fresh  youth,  are  quite  beyond  belief. 

When  Desdemona  followed  leading-love, 
Betrayed,  by  dark  Othello's  hand  she  died; 

Emelia,  when  fortune  turned  against  her, 
I  "play  the  swan  and  die  in  music,"  cried. 

Grim  the  tale  of  Regan  and  Goneril; 
Ingratitude,  most  heinous  sin  of  sins. 


36  TWO  MASQUES 

And  instigator  of  a  hundred  more, 

They  had  for  Lear.     Sad  death  Cordelia  wins. 

In  Lady  Macbeth  one  must  ever  see 

The  darkest  picture,  drawn  by  any  pen. 

Of  womankind.     Ambition's  voice  she  heard. 
And  the  weird  sisters  on  the  marshy  fen. 

How  often  life  has  chained  a  woman's  hands. 
And  fortune  turned  against  her  in  the  race; 

But  poet's  thought  can  read  a  woman's  mind, 
And  poet's  power  describe  her  rightful  place. 

{When  Tragedy  Chorus  has  ceased  speaking  the 
group  pass  from  the  stage  at  the  left.) 

A  Sword  Dance 

{Enter    Classic    Group   from    the   right j   led   by 
Chorus,  who  recites  the  following  lines.) 

CLASSIC  CHORUS 

Around  the  Mediterranean  shores 
Lie  lands  where  Poetry  and  Art 
Have  ever  dwelt. 

The  day's  fair  hours, 
And  misty  purple  twilights,  stir 
Within  the  mind  a  thousand  dreams 
Of  beauteous  things. 

Fancy  grows  great 
To  cause  return  of  Classic  lore; 
No  poet  fails  to  seek  these  shores 
And  bring  to  his  own  time  some  gems 


WOMEN  OF  SHAKESPEARE         37 

To  adorn  his  page. 

In  Classic  garb 
Xhese  stately  women  enter  now; 
Cresseda  false,  fairest  in  Troy 
Save  Helen,  wed  to  Menelaus, 
And  in  Troy  fairest  of  the  fair; 
Frenzied  Cassandra,  and  the  wife 
Of  Hector  bold. 

Portia  of  Rome 
A  noble  lady;    Caesar's  queen 
Calpurnia;   living  in  times 
Of  great  imperial  power  and 
Wealth   at   Court. 

Volumnia  brave 
For  Rome,  and  fearless,  plead  with  power; 
And,  with  Virgillia,  met  her  life's 
Last  tragic  hour. 

In   regal  pomp 
The  Oriental  tawny  queen, 
Iras  and  Charmian,  her  maids 
And  sharers  in  her  destiny, 
Do  now  appear. 

High  thoughts  of  art 
Must  come  when  classic  times  are  seen 
In  picture  and  in  play.     Women 
With  charming  grace  of  mind  and  mien 
Dwelt  then  in  palmy  Greece  and  Rome 
And  by  the  perfumed  Nile.     And  now 
In  drama  we  may  view  them  here. 

{When  the  Classic  Chorus  has  ceased  speaking 
the  Classic  Group  retires  from  the  stage  at  the 
left.) 


38  TWO  MASQUES 

Classic  Dance 

{Enter  Romantic  Group,  from  the  right,  led  by 
Chorus,  who  recites  the  following  lines.) 

ROMANTIC  CHORUS 

The  world  of  Fancy  now  must  us  engage, 
While  Terpsichore  and  Erato  dance 

Before  our  minds,  and  lead  us  into  fields 
Where  ever  dwells  the  fine  art  of  Romance. 

Pleading  a  clemency  for  brother  loved, 
Sweet  Isabella,  in  her  suppliant  mood, 

By  virtue  won  a  Prince's  heart,  who  knew 

"The   hand   that  made  her   fair  had   made  her 
good." 

At  Belmont  dwelt  the  noble  Portia, 

In  knowledge  skilled  of  a  fair  legal  sort; 

Nerissa,  too,  and  gentle  Jessica; — 

Honored  are  women  by  their  good  report. 

Of  sprightly  Beatrice,  and  Hero  brave. 
Upon  a  time  there  once  was  much  ado; 

But  the  wise  friar  planned  with  knowing  skill; 
The  jealous  lover  found  his  Hero  true. 

These  words  came  soothing  sweet  to  Imogen, 
When  as  Fidelio,  she  risked  her  life. 

And  her  true  love  restored,  he  said  to  her, 
**0  Imogen,  my  queen,  my  life,  my  wife!" 

Hermione's  heart  a  well  of  virtue  was; 
'Neath  the  soft  skies  of  sunny  Sicily, 


WOMEN  OF  SHAKESPEARE  39 

Abused  by  perfidy,  she  bore  her  part; 

And  Perdita,  her  child,  grew  sweet  as  she. 

The  stormy  sea  to  sweet  Miranda  brought 
A  lover  true.     The  sprite  worked  mystery 

And  the  droll  creature  dealt  in  many  charms; 
But  in  the  end  all  safe  reached  Italy. 

Among  the  women  who  adorn  the  page 

Of  drama,  those  who  are  of  light  Romance, 

For  charm,  and  grace,  and  wit,  and  poetry. 
Are  favorites  in  the  world  of  play,  perchance. 

{When  the  Romance  Chorus  has  ceased  speaking, 
the  women  of  the  group  pass  off  the  stage  at  the 
left.) 

Ariel  Dances 

The  Dark  Lady  of  the  Sonnets  Appears 

SHAKESPEARE 

{Rises  and  recites  these  lines.) 

Now  comes  one  here  with  dark  mysterious  eyes, 
Who  doth  possess  such  beauty  as  I  prize; 
Her  "black  is  fairest  in  my  judgment's  place," 
And  "those  two  mourning  eyes  become  her  face." 
Her  "eyes  I  love,  and  they,  as  pitying  me," 
"Have  put  on  black  and  loving  mourners  be;" 
And  yet  I  fear  'tis  not  without  disdain 
She  looks  "with  pretty  ruth  upon  my  pain." 
Sweet  are  the  visions  that  come  to  the  mind 
When  dusky  eyes  are  soft,  serene  and  kind, 


40  TWO  MASQUES 

But  bitter  is  the  sharp  and  cruel  dart 

That  may  be  hurled  from  them  to  pierce  the  heart. 

Full  oft  within  the  dark  mysterious  eyes 

Deep  thoughts  do  lie  that  a  sweet  peace  denies. 

"Make  but  my  name  thy  love,  and  love  that  still, 

And  then  thou  lov'st  me, — for  my  name  is  Will." 

(The  dark  Lady  of  the  Sonnets  disappears; 
Shakespeare  steps  forward  almost  in  the  centre  and 
recites  the  finale.) 

SHAKESPEARE 

If  we  have  wearied  you  we  pardon  crave; 
Yet  we  do  trust  our  women,  fair  and  brave. 
In  gorgeous  semblage  here  before  your  eyes, 
Have  won  your  high  approval,  and  we  prize 
Your  patient  ear,  and  all  attentive  mind, 
Queen  of  all  queens,  a  ruler  wise  and  kind. 
Let  dancing  fairies  come,  cheer  to  impart, 
Mid-summer-night's  dream,  and  a  quiet  heart, 
When  all  the  women  bid  your  Grace  adieu 
And  this  unworthy  pageant  pass  from  view. 

{Shakespeare  makes  an  obeisance  and  retreats  to 
the  side  of  stage.) 

Dance  of  Puck  and  Fairies 

{Each  group,  led  by  Chorus,  again  appears  in 
original  order,  passing  in  pageant  before  the  queen. 
Shakespeare  and  Dark  Lady  follow  the  women.) 

Music — Midsummer  Night's  Dream. 

Curtain 


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NOV  11  ,932 

^ov    ':'  1933 
SEP  24  1942 

^PR  12  1987 
RECEIVED  BY 

MAR  1 2 1987 

C»CLttATIONOI>T. 


1>pp 


LD  21-50/n-8,'3: 


rS  315C5 


GENERAL  LIBRARY- U.C.  BERKELEY 


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372223 


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UNIVERSITY  OF  CALIFORNIA  LIBRARY 


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